Area birders will follow specific routes in an
established 15-mile-wide diameter circle in the
Glens Falls region. Every single bird is
counted, as well as every species. Most of the
birding is done from a car, but some teams may
walk along trails or in area parks. The many
diverse habitats within the SAAS count circle
make for interesting observations. It’s also a
fun way to get to know area birders and increase
your skills. SAAS has held a count every year
since 1983.

To join a count team for a whole or partial
day, contact SAAS count compiler Linda White
at 518-222-5675, preferably a week before the
count. For details, see the SAAS website.
Beginning birders can join a group that includes
at least one experienced birder. New birders do
not need to be a bird identification expert to
participate, and are welcomed to help spot birds
or keep team records.

Tens of thousands of volunteers will participate
in more than 2,000 individual counts across
North America, with some in Central and South
America. Counts will be held between December 14
to January 5.

The Christmas Bird Census started in 1900 when
ornithologist Frank Chapman suggested it as an
alternative to Christmas “side hunts,”
competitions to see which teams could shoot the
most birds and other animals. Instead, birders
count every bird they see in the designated
count areas. It is now considered the world’s
longest running citizen science project.

For a map of area count circles and more
information about the CBC, see:
http://www.audubon.org/join-christmas-bird-count